The TBSSA Learnership Programme 2026 is now open, offering unemployed South African youth a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills while earning a monthly stipend of R4 600. With accessible entry requirements, online applications, and no fixed closing date, this programme is designed to support young people who want to move from unemployment into meaningful work or further learning.
Due to strong interest each year, early application is strongly encouraged even though applications remain open on a rolling basis.
What Is the TBSSA Learnership Programme?
The TBSSA Learnership Programme is run by Technical Business Skills South Africa, a training organisation focused on equipping unemployed youth with entry-level, workplace-ready skills. The programme is built around practical learning that prepares participants for real working environments.
Training areas typically include:
- Basic administration
- Customer service and support
- Entry-level technical support
- General business operations
These learnerships are structured to help candidates who need foundational skills to access employment opportunities or progress to further studies. TBSSA focuses on combining theory with hands-on experience to address South Africa’s ongoing youth unemployment challenges.
Monthly Stipend: R4 600 Explained
Participants in the programme receive a monthly stipend of R4 600 for the duration of the learnership. This financial support helps learners manage essential costs while they focus on full-time training.
The stipend assists with:
- Transport expenses
- Daily living costs
- Training-related needs
For many participants, this stipend becomes their first consistent source of income, providing both financial stability and motivation during the programme.
Programme Duration, Structure, and Commitment
Most TBSSA learnerships run for 12 months and follow a structured format that mirrors real workplace expectations. Learners typically participate five days a week and receive:
- Classroom-based theoretical training
- Practical workplace exposure
- Mentorship and supervision
- Hands-on task experience
Depending on the learnership stream, successful completion can lead to an NQF Level 4 qualification. The programme is designed to help learners develop discipline, confidence, and job readiness.
Eligibility Criteria for TBSSA Learnership 2026
Academic requirements
- Minimum of Grade 11 completed
- Matric is an advantage but not compulsory
- Basic literacy and communication skills
The programme is intentionally accessible to candidates who did not complete Matric, making it a strong option for those looking to rebuild their career foundation.
Age and citizenship
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be a South African citizen
Suitability screening
Applicants may be required to complete:
- A short interview
- An aptitude or suitability assessment
- Basic communication or writing tests
These assessments are used to place learners in the most suitable programme stream rather than to exclude applicants.
How to Apply for the TBSSA Learnership 2026
Applications are submitted online and processed continuously.
Step-by-step application guide
- Visit the official TBSSA application portal:
https://businessschool.edu.za/learnership-application/ - Complete the online application form with accurate personal details
- Upload clear copies of the following documents:
- South African ID
- Latest school results (Grade 11 or higher)
- CV (recommended but not compulsory)
- Submit the application and keep your confirmation details
Common mistakes to avoid
- Uploading unclear or incomplete documents
- Providing incorrect contact information
- Skipping motivation or suitability sections
Carefully reviewing your application before submission can prevent unnecessary delays.
Why No Closing Date Means You Should Apply Early
Although the TBSSA Learnership Programme has no fixed closing date, applications are assessed on a rolling basis. This means available spaces can be filled at any time once suitable candidates are identified.
Applying early significantly improves your chances of being shortlisted and placed in the next available intake.
What Happens After You Apply?
The typical process includes:
- Within 2 weeks: Initial screening and document checks
- 4 to 6 weeks: Interview or assessment invitations
- 6 to 8 weeks: Final selection and placement
- Onboarding: Orientation and training schedules issued
Applicants are usually contacted via email, and delays may occur due to high application volumes.
Benefits of Joining the TBSSA Learnership Programme
Build practical, in-demand skills
Learners develop skills in areas such as:
- Computer literacy
- Customer interaction
- Data capturing
- Office support tasks
- Workplace communication
These skills are relevant across many industries.
Gain real-world experience and mentorship
Participants benefit from:
- Supervised workplace exposure
- Professional guidance from mentors
- Practical task completion
- Exposure to real operational environments
Pathway to employment
Many graduates move into full-time roles after completing the programme, while others use the qualification to access further training or better opportunities.
Conclusion
The TBSSA Learnership Programme 2026 offers a practical combination of skills development, workplace exposure, and financial support. With a R4 600 monthly stipend, accessible Grade 11 entry requirements, and ongoing applications, this programme provides a realistic pathway for young South Africans seeking stability and career growth.
If you are 18 or older and serious about building your future, this learnership could be the step that changes your direction. Applying early can make all the difference.
